In seemingly the blink of an eye, colder temperatures have returned to Toronto and the GTA once again. In fact, many area residents might have already used the fireplaces in their homes and cottages to take the chill out of the air in the early evening hours.
Due to this earlier-than-usual fireplace use, or at least a contemplation of its use, many homeowners may have inadvertently neglected a serious safety and structural question before winter fully arrives – is their fireplace chimney in a state of adequate and proper repair?
To prepare a chimney for winter weather conditions, homeowners will need to address:
- The interior of the chimney from fire box to roof top – cleaning soot/creosote, etc.
- The portion exposed to the elements – from the foundation and/or above the roofline
With specific focus on the exterior exposures of the chimney, failure to properly inspect for and repair any potential/actual issues can result in severe damage to the structural integrity of the building envelope i.e.: the roof, exterior walls, foundation, and the doors and windows.
Any such structural damage can be likely attributed to water and ice penetration and the subsequent effects of freezing-and-thawing cycles throughout the winter and during the spring thaw. Examples of the types of damage and costs that can result when chimney repair needs are either not identified or not addressed include:
- Roof leaks – interior water damage; a need to replace shingles, soffits, fascia, etc.
- Exterior walls – the repair or total replacement of masonry work done or aluminum siding
- Foundation – may crack, allowing water to penetrate into the garage or basement
- Windows and doors – framing may weaken and ultimately need to be replaced
Therefore, to prevent any unwarranted inconvenience and expenses from such damaging and destructive consequences, homeowners would be advised to perform a chimney inspection as soon as possible – and especially due to the inclement winter weather that is rapidly approaching Toronto and the GTA.
If moving about on the roof of the home poses some discomfort and/or safety concerns, homeowners should consider the professional inspection and repair services of a Toronto roofing company such as Avenue Road Roofing.
A Thorough Inspection By A Chimney Repair Company Gives You Peace-Of-Mind
To ensure your peace-of-mind with the state of your chimney heading into the winter months, a physical inspection should be completed on an annual basis in the fall. This inspection will identify any potential or existing issues that need immediate repair work to prevent serious complications, damage, and/or costs during the winter or next spring.
Utilizing the services of a professional chimney repair company such as Avenue Road Roofing will further ensure that the inspections are both systematic and comprehensive. Our experts will look for the following problems and provide a detailed summary of any/all recommended or necessary repair needs:
- Missing, loose, or corroded flashing
- Cracks in the masonry or mortar
- Loose, chipped, or crumbling bricks
- Cracked or chipped crown/mortar cap
- Fefective or missing rain cap/cover
- Obvious tilting or leaning
- Efflorescence (white deposits on masonry surface)
Based on the extent of any damage or problems identified, Avenue Road Roofing has the expertise to competently perform the masonry repairs as quickly as possible to re-establish the structural integrity you need and want for your chimney before the harsh winter weather arrives.
For peace-of-mind that your chimney is ready to withstand the coming winter, call the team at Avenue Road Roofing today at 416-785-5129 or contact us to schedule a pre-winter inspection. Our specialists will perform a thorough inspection and expertly attend to any and all identified repair needs with the appropriate urgency.